Metro Manila’s single-ticketing system, officially launched in the City of San Juan on Nov. 15, 2023, is set to bring a more organized approach to traffic management in the National Capital Region (NCR). Following a successful pilot run in San Juan, as well as in Manila, Parañaque, Quezon City, Caloocan, Muntinlupa, and Valenzuela, the system is on track for full implementation across NCR.
Initiated by the Metro Manila Council, led by San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, the project aims to streamline traffic violations and fines in the 16 cities and lone municipality within the NCR. The Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023 was approved by the Metro Manila Council to institutionalize the single-ticketing system.
Among the several advantages of this single-ticketing system is harmonizing existing laws on traffic enforcement and management in Metro Manila. Additionally, it ensures interoperability and interconnectivity among government instrumentalities involved in transport and traffic management.
With interoperability and interconnectivity among the traffic management systems of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and the 17 local government units in the NCR, red tape will be cut and there will be less chance for corruption. Fines can now be paid through the system, since it can be paid on the spot through the handheld devices issued to authorized traffic enforcers using online channels such as e-wallets, debit cards, or credit cards. This not only saves time, gas, and effort for erring motorists but also discourages bribery. These handheld devices can also be used to issue traffic violation tickets.
While the option for online payment offers convenience, it is not without charges. A convenience fee of ₱7 applies to users of e-wallets and Land Bank, while those using debit or credit cards will incur a one percent charge based on the fine amount.
Under the Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023, various violations come with corresponding fines. For instance, number-coding scheme violators face a ₱500 fine, while those disregarding traffic signs, causing obstruction, overloading, or possessing defective motor vehicle accessories will be fined ₱1,000. Illegally parked vehicles incur ₱1,000 and ₱2,000 fines for attended and unattended vehicles, respectively. A comprehensive list of violations and their corresponding fines is available on the MMDA website.
The implementation of this new system is anticipated to contribute to the management of the perennial traffic problem in Metro Manila and address corruption concerns related to traffic enforcement. If proven successful in NCR, authorities could explore the possibility of replicating this program in other regions. The advantages of utilizing digital devices and apps should not be restricted to NCR residents alone but should extend to benefit the entire country.
Even with this kind of system, there remains the possibility of unscrupulous traffic enforcers boldly attempting corruption and erring motorists using various excuses to avoid paying fines. Therefore, the MMDA must establish an effective monitoring mechanism for road situations. Apprehended individuals should face the full force of the law. Otherwise, we will return to the chaotic days of the past when motorists feel no accountability when violating the rules of the road.